What are some of your earliest musical memories?

My earliest musical memories include singing for a Youth Federation when I was 2, and being lifted to stand on a stool behind the podium so I could reach the microphone.  I sang "Tomorrow" by the Winans.  Even now, when I run into someone who remembers me from back in those days, they always remind me how the microphone was bigger than I was!

How long did it take for you to begin singing at church and what was one of your favorite songs to sing?

I've been singing at church for as long as I can remember.  Favorites would have to include "Carry On" by Babbie Mason, and "All In Favor" by Larnell Harris.

Who were some of the influential people that helped you develop your musical gift?

Without question, had it not been for the dedication of my parents encouraging my musical talents, helping me memorize lyrics at such a young age, and taking me to various singing engagements around the country and sometimes abroad, I would not have had the opportunities I was blessed with.

How did you come to the conclusion that it was your mission to spread the gospel through singing?

Since singing had been such an integral part of my life for so long, I had always known that I wanted to pursue it professionally.  However, it really became a mission for me after I released my first album.  Once I began to receive emails and hear the testimonies from people who were sincerely blessed by my music, I started to see the purpose in what I was doing.  When it sets in that a stranger took the time to email you personally or to share how your music played a part in their personal walk with Christ, it becomes more than just music. It becomes a mission.  I began to feel like I had a responsibility to keep making music that may in some way contribute to the healing and encouragement of others.

What role did music play in what you decided to study? 

Music played a major role in my studies beginning in high school and continuing throughout college.  I attended a performing arts high school in south Florida where I was exposed to the academia of music.  I was able to study with students who were extremely gifted in music and the arts.  It made an early impression on me.  I became hungry for any and all information about my craft.  By the time I arrived at Oakwood College, I already knew that I wanted to study music business in order to learn all I could about the industry.  At the suggestion of my counselor, I also pursued a master's in music education.  

What was the impetus behind forming Testimony Records while in college?

I'd spent the first semester of my freshman year at Oakwood researching gospel record labels.  I was intrigued by Gospo-Centric (then home to Kirk Franklin and others) and its humble beginnings with little over $5000.   I also had a vision to take gospel music to places where it wasn't normally marketed, especially back then.  I figured the best way to do that was to start my own label.  Around my junior year, something one of my teachers said suggested that time was of the essence and I didn't have to wait until I graduated to do what I was planning.  The next month, I filed the paperwork, paid the fees, and we were in business.   

What do you find most fulfilling about working in this capacity? 

I think what's most fulfilling is knowing that I'm following God's will for my life, and loving every step of it.  I'm blessed to be able to support myself doing what I love.  Can't beat being my own boss either :)

What are some lessons you can share that might inspire or instruct others who are trying to share the gospel through music?

Stay positive, focused, and determined.  It can be very easy to get discouraged and distracted in the music business. There is also a tendency to measure success by the world's standards.  Strive for excellence in everything you do.  This should not only include the music, but the album cover, artwork, photography, wardrobe, and especially the live performance.  The standards aren't any lower because you're doing Gospel.  If anything, they're much higher.  Also, remember that your goal is to share the gospel through music.  If one person is blessed by your music, regardless of how many CDs you sell, you are a success!

With a world in turmoil and people facing growing challenges from every direction, what are some lyrics from one of your songs that might encourage them? 

I know this road I'm on seems kind of long
But I must keep holding on until I reach home
Cause sometimes the wind blows and sometimes it rains
But have faith my friend and know that its not in vain
Don't matter how fast my feet let me go
Cause some folks may pass by; to them I seem slow
But there's nothing to gain me if I turn around
But God's grace sustains me while I'm homeward bound

I am just a weary Pilgrim and I'm on my way
I am only passing through I'm not here to stay
One day I'm gon' get to heaven, that's where I belong
But until then I'm gon' sing this pilgrim song

(Excerpts taken from "Keep Pressin' On", and "The Pilgrimage".)